Title: "Declan Rice’s Twin Free-Kick Brilliance Puts Arsenal in Command Against Real Madrid in UCL Quarters"

Arsenal Take Command Against Real Madrid in Champions League Thriller
By Tum Balogun, Ian Ladyman, Isaan Khan, and Aadam Patel | Updated: 21:55 BST, 8 April 2025

Declan Rice opened the scoring with a stunning free-kick at the Emirates.

Arsenal seized control of their Champions League quarter-final tie against Real Madrid with a thrilling 2-0 first-leg victory, powered by two breathtaking free-kicks from midfielder Declan Rice. The English side outclassed the reigning European champions in front of a raucous Emirates crowd, leaving Carlo Ancelotti’s squad with a mountain to climb in the return leg.

First Half: Rice’s Magic Breaks Deadlock
The Gunners started aggressively, pressing Madrid high and dominating possession. Bukayo Saka tested goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois early, but it was Rice who broke through in the 28th minute. After Martin Ødegaard was fouled 25 yards out, Rice stepped up and curled a pinpoint free-kick into the top corner, leaving Courtois rooted. The strike sent the home crowd into delirium.

Arsenal fans roared as Rice’s first goal hit the net.

Madrid responded with flashes of threat, as Vinícius Júnior forced a sharp save from David Raya. However, Arsenal’s defense, marshaled by William Saliba, held firm to preserve the lead at halftime.

Second Half: Rice Seals Masterclass
The hosts doubled their advantage just six minutes after the break. Another foul on the edge of the box handed Rice a chance to shine again. This time, he bent a left-footed effort over the wall and into the bottom corner, showcasing his dead-ball versatility.

Ancelotti introduced Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga to spark a comeback, but Arsenal’s midfield trio of Rice, Ødegaard, and Jorginho controlled the tempo. Raya made crucial stops from Rodrygo and Aurélien Tchouaméni late on to secure a clean sheet.

Key Moments & Tactical Battles

• Rice’s Brilliance: The England international’s set-piece prowess stole the spotlight, marking his first career brace.
• Defensive Discipline: Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães neutralized Madrid’s attack, with Raya making five saves.
• Ancelotti’s Frustration: Madrid’s lackluster performance raised questions about their fatigue after a grueling La Liga title race.

Saliba and Gabriel formed an impenetrable wall at the back.

Post-Match Reactions
Mikel Arteta praised Rice’s “exceptional mentality,” adding, “We know the job isn’t done, but this is a statement.” Ancelotti admitted Madrid were “second best” but vowed to fight back in the Bernabéu leg.

Looking Ahead
The second leg on April 16 will test Arsenal’s resolve, as Madrid have overturned deficits in Europe before. However, the Gunners’ commanding display has them poised to reach their first semi-final since 2009.

Follow Daily Mail Sport for live updates and analysis of the Champions League quarter-finals.

Shortened and adapted from the original article. Images are illustrative.